Notice of Intent to Evaluate

A Notice of Intent to Evaluate is a written document that informs parents or guardians that the school district proposes to conduct an initial evaluation of their child to determine if they are eligible for special education services under the IDEA. The notice typically includes a description of the reasons for the proposed evaluation, the specific areas that will be assessed (e.g., cognitive, academic, behavioral, or social-emotional), and the methods and tools that will be used to gather information. The notice must also inform parents of their rights related to the evaluation process, including the right to provide input and information, the right to request an independent educational evaluation, and the right to refuse consent for the evaluation. The Notice of Intent to Evaluate is an important tool for ensuring that parents are fully informed and involved in the process of determining their child’s eligibility for special education services and that evaluations are conducted in a timely and appropriate manner.